Trade Careers in Texas
Quick answer: In Texas, elevator mechanics earn a median of $102,140 and electricians $58,570 per year (BLS, May 2025). Most trades are entered through an apprenticeship or a trade-school program, often in two years or less. Licensing is handled by the state agencies listed below, including TDLR and the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners.
Skilled Trades in Texas by the Numbers
Among the skilled trades this site covers, the largest in Texas by employment are heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers (209,680 jobs), maintenance and repair workers (140,580 jobs), and electricians (76,770 jobs) (BLS OEWS, May 2025).
| Trade | Jobs in Texas | Median annual wage | Share of jobs vs U.S. (LQ) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers | 209,680 | $56,290 | 1.12 |
| Maintenance and repair workers | 140,580 | $46,670 | 1.02 |
| Electricians | 76,770 | $58,570 | 1.12 |
| Automotive service technicians | 69,750 | $48,310 | 1.09 |
| Industrial machinery mechanics | 56,950 | $61,930 | 1.43 |
| Heavy equipment operators | 55,540 | $50,460 | 1.28 |
| Welders, cutters and solderers | 52,000 | $53,340 | 1.38 |
| Plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters | 44,090 | $59,840 | 1.05 |
Trades that make up a larger share of Texas jobs than they do nationally: structural iron and steel workers (location quotient 1.57), electrical power-line installers (location quotient 1.46) and industrial machinery mechanics (location quotient 1.43).
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 state estimates. A location quotient above 1 means the trade's share of Texas employment is higher than its share nationally; it describes concentration, not job openings or hiring demand. Wages vary by location, experience and employer.
Trade Comparison in Texas
| Trade | Median Salary | Training Time | Typical licensing (varies by state) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $48,900 | 6 months - 4 years (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Construction Worker | $40,620 | 3-12 months (apprenticeship or on-the-job) | Varies (OSHA 10/30; state contractor license for supervisors) |
| Flooring Installer | $42,815 | 6-12 months (on-the-job + coursework) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Plumber | $59,840 | 4-5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| Welder | $53,340 | 6-18 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (AWS certification preferred) |
| Construction Manager | $101,470 | 2-4 years (degree or field experience) | Varies (contractor license in many states) |
| Home Inspector | $64,810 | 2-6 months (state-approved course) | Yes in many states (state license) |
| Mold Inspector | N/A | 3-12 months (coursework + field hours) | Varies (state license or industry certification) |
| Electrician | $58,570 | 4-5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| HVAC Technician | $57,760 | 6 months - 2 years (certificate or associate) | Yes (EPA 608 and state licensing) |
| Lineworker | $78,940 | 3-4 years (joint apprenticeship) | Yes (apprenticeship + utility certifications) |
| Solar Installer | $48,240 | 3-12 months (bootcamp or apprenticeship) | Optional (NABCEP certification beneficial) |
| Tower Technician | $77,910 | 3-9 months (tower climbing school + field training) | Yes (OSHA/NRF safety + CPR certifications) |
| Wind Turbine Technician | $61,950 | 1-2 years (associate or technical diploma) | Yes (industry safety certifications) |
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | $84,440 | 18-30 months (Part 147 school or apprenticeship) | Yes (FAA A&P license) |
| Auto Mechanic | $48,310 | 6-12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| Automotive Technician | $48,310 | 9-18 months (advanced diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| CNC Machinist | $59,180 | 9-24 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NIMS certification beneficial) |
| Diesel Technician | $58,810 | 1-2 years (associate or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE or OEM certifications) |
| Gunsmith | $64,150 | 6-18 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NRA/NSTC credentials beneficial) |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $50,460 | 6-12 months (trade school or union program) | Optional (CDL required for many roles) |
| Maintenance Technician | $46,670 | 6-12 months (trade school or on-the-job) | Optional (CMRT or OEM certifications) |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $56,290 | 3-6 months (CDL program) | Yes (CDL Class A or B) |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $37,500 | 4-12 weeks (state-approved program) | Yes (state CNA exam) |
| Patient Care Technician | $37,500 | 4-12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (CNA license + PCT certification in many hospitals) |
| Hemodialysis Technician | $47,870 | 4-12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (state certification or BONENT/CCHT credential) |
| Home Health Aide | $24,230 | 3-6 months (training + competency exam) | Yes in many states (state-approved HHA program) |
| Medical Assistant | $39,520 | 9-12 months (certificate or diploma) | Optional (CMA, RMA, or CCMA) |
| Mental Health Technician | $39,970 | 6-12 months (certificate + clinical experience) | Varies (state registration + employer training) |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $62,240 | 12-18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | $62,240 | 12-18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Dental Assistant | $45,430 | 9-18 months (diploma or associate program) | Varies (CDA, RDA, or state license) |
| EKG Technician | $53,000 | 3-9 months (certificate program) | Optional (CET, CCT, or AMCA) |
| Pharmacy Technician | $45,900 | 6-12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Varies (state license or PTCB/ExCPT) |
| Phlebotomy Technician | $40,450 | 4-6 months (certificate + clinical practice) | Yes in many states (national certification preferred) |
| Radiologic Technologist | $78,630 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (ARRT registration + state license) |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $92,580 | 18-24 months (accredited associate or certificate) | Yes (ARDMS/CCI credential; state license in some areas) |
| Sterile Processing Technician | $46,970 | 6-12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes in many states (CRCST or CBSPD certification) |
| Surgical Technologist | $65,220 | 12-24 months (accredited surgical tech program) | Yes in many states (NBSTSA or NCCT certification) |
| Optician | $38,720 | 9-24 months (apprenticeship or associate) | Yes in many states (state license or ABO-NCLE) |
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | $48,860 | 9-24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CPC, CCA, or CBCS) |
| Medical Office Administrator | $42,910 | 9-18 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CMAA or CEHRS certification) |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $81,500 | 2 years (accredited associate degree) | Yes (state license via NBCOT exam) |
| Physical Therapy Aide | $31,590 | 3-12 months (certificate or employer training) | Optional (on-the-job + certificate programs) |
| Massage Therapist | $59,370 | 9-18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state license) |
| Personal Trainer | $40,880 | 3-6 months (exam prep + practicum) | Yes (national certification required by many employers) |
| Dog Trainer | $36,370 | 6-12 months (mentorship or certificate) | Optional (industry certifications preferred) |
| Veterinary Assistant | $34,850 | 6-12 months (certificate + hands-on experience) | Optional (AVMA-approved assistant credential) |
| Veterinary Technician | $39,410 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (VTNE and state license) |
| Beauty Professional | $30,680 | 9-15 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Cosmetologist | $30,680 | 9-18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Esthetician | $49,250 | 4-9 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state esthetics license) |
| Culinary Chef | $36,463 | 1-2 years (culinary school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe + local food handler permit) |
| Pastry Chef | $36,463 | 9-18 months (baking & pastry diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe; ACF certification boosts prospects) |
| Bookkeeper | $48,910 | 6-12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Optional (CB or CPB certification beneficial) |
| Digital Court Reporter | $110,080 | 6-12 months (certificate program) | Optional (AAERT certification preferred) |
| Paralegal | $62,310 | 12-24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (ABA-approved certificate beneficial) |
Licensing rules differ by state and change over time; confirm current requirements with your state licensing board. Source: BLS OEWS, May 2025. State data (Texas).
Trade Schools in Texas
Pro Tip: Public schools like TSTC offer career support for high-demand trades. Verify details with the school.
Benefits of Texas Trade Schools
| Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Local Licensing Alignment | Programs follow TDLR, CSLB, and TSBPE guidelines |
| Affordable Tuition | Community colleges and TSTC offer low-cost, in-state rates |
| Career Support | Most schools partner with Texas employers and unions |
| Fast Training Timelines | Many programs are completed in 6-18 months |
Top Texas Trade School Programs
| Program | Typical Length | Common School Types |
|---|---|---|
| HVAC Technician | 9-18 months | TSTC, SCI, community colleges |
| Welding | 6-12 months | TSTC, Lincoln Tech, Dallas College |
| CDL Truck Driving | 4-8 weeks | TSTC, Lone Star, private CDL academies |
| Diesel Technician | 12-24 months | South Texas College, TSTC |
| Electrician Training | 1-2 years + apprenticeship | HCC, Dallas College, IBEW affiliates |
Where to Start
Visit our full guide: Best Trade Schools in Texas (2025). Learn about accredited programs, licensing outcomes, and which trades are in highest demand across the state.
Licensing Agencies in Texas
| Trade | Licensing Agency |
|---|---|
| Electrician | TDLR - Electricians |
| Plumber | Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners |
| HVAC | TDLR - A/C & Refrigeration |
| Solar Installer | No specific license (may need electrical) |
| Welder | Optional - AWS certification recommended |
| Carpenter | No state license required |
| Mold Inspector | TDLR - Mold Assessors & Remediators |
Career & Salary Outlook in Texas
Building & Construction Trades
| Trade | Job Growth (2025-2035, US) |
|---|---|
| Plumber | 6.8% |
| Welder | 2.4% |
| Carpenter | 3.9% |
| Flooring Installer | 9.0% |
| Construction Worker | 7.3% |
Construction Management & Inspection
| Trade | Job Growth (2025-2035, US) |
|---|---|
| Construction Manager | 9.1% |
| Home Inspector | 0.0% |
Electrical & Energy Systems
| Trade | Job Growth (2025-2035, US) |
|---|---|
| Lineworker | 10.3% |
| Tower Technician | 1.2% |
| Wind Turbine Technician | 29.5% |
| Electrician | 9.2% |
| HVAC Technician | 10.9% |
| Solar Installer | 36.5% |
Mechanical, Automotive & Transportation
| Trade | Job Growth (2025-2035, US) |
|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | 5.4% |
| Gunsmith | 2.5% |
| CNC Machinist | 1.0% |
| Diesel Technician | 3.6% |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | 3.8% |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | 4.6% |
| Auto Mechanic | 5.0% |
| Automotive Technician | 5.0% |
| Maintenance Technician | 4.2% |
Healthcare: Nursing & Patient Care
| Trade | Job Growth (2025-2035, US) |
|---|---|
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | 3.0% |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | 3.0% |
| Hemodialysis Technician | 5.9% |
| Mental Health Technician | 22.3% |
| Medical Assistant | 12.9% |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | 2.6% |
| Patient Care Technician | 2.6% |
| Home Health Aide | 18.1% |
Healthcare: Allied Health & Diagnostics
| Trade | Job Growth (2025-2035, US) |
|---|---|
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | 13.9% |
| Radiologic Technologist | 5.0% |
| Surgical Technologist | 5.0% |
| EKG Technician | 3.7% |
| Sterile Processing Technician | 10.8% |
| Pharmacy Technician | 6.4% |
| Dental Assistant | 7.4% |
| Phlebotomy Technician | 6.8% |
| Optician | 4.2% |
Healthcare: Administration & Office Support
| Trade | Job Growth (2025-2035, US) |
|---|---|
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | 7.8% |
| Medical Office Administrator | 4.8% |
Therapy, Rehab & Fitness
| Trade | Job Growth (2025-2035, US) |
|---|---|
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | 21.5% |
| Massage Therapist | 15.3% |
| Personal Trainer | 7.3% |
| Physical Therapy Aide | 4.0% |
Animal Care & Training
| Trade | Job Growth (2025-2035, US) |
|---|---|
| Veterinary Technician | 9.4% |
| Dog Trainer | 4.2% |
| Veterinary Assistant | 9.1% |
Beauty & Personal Care
| Trade | Job Growth (2025-2035, US) |
|---|---|
| Esthetician | 8.8% |
| Beauty Professional | 7.7% |
| Cosmetologist | 7.7% |
Culinary & Hospitality Careers
| Trade | Job Growth (2025-2035, US) |
|---|---|
| Culinary Chef | 6.6% |
| Pastry Chef | 6.6% |
Business & Legal Support
| Trade | Job Growth (2025-2035, US) |
|---|---|
| Digital Court Reporter | -0.1% |
| Paralegal | -0.3% |
| Bookkeeper | -5.6% |
Job growth uses state projections when available and national projections (BLS Employment Projections, 2025-2035) when state data is unavailable. Median pay for each trade is shown in the comparison table above.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections (2025-2035). Projected U.S. change shown for each trade.
Ready to Start Your Trade Career in Texas?
Explore a guide, compare training options, or download a checklist to take your first step today.
Degree Programs in Texas
Trade school is not the only route. These are the four-year and graduate degrees on this site, with Texas pay, employment and school listings for each. They sit above the trades on this page rather than alongside them.
Construction and the built environment
- Construction Supervision Degree in Texas
- Online Construction Management Degrees in Texas
- Online Civil Engineering Degree in Texas
- Online Architecture Degree in Texas
Manufacturing, maintenance and energy
- Production Supervision Degree in Texas
- Maintenance Supervision Degree in Texas
- Online Mechanical Engineering Degree in Texas
- Online Electrical Engineering Degree in Texas
- Online Industrial Engineering Degree in Texas
Health care
- Online Nursing Degrees in Texas
- Physician Assistant Programs in Texas
- Online Radiologic Technology Degree in Texas
- Online Health Sciences Degree in Texas
- Online Healthcare Administration Degrees in Texas
Business, technology and public service
All degree programs - the full index
Citations
About this guide: Researched and written by the TradeCareerPath Editorial Team. Our editorial team researches and sources every trade school and career guide using federal labor and education data, including BLS OEWS and Employment Projections, DOL apprenticeship records, IPEDS, College Scorecard, and state licensing boards. We follow the editorial standards documented at /editorial-policy/.